A bill that would allow some ex-felons to have their rights to possess firearms and other weapons restored is one of several gun bills being considered by a House panel.

The House Public Safety Committee is scheduled to hear a bill by Cordell Republican Rep. Todd Russ that would allow individuals convicted of a nonviolent felony who have completed their sentence and probationary period to have their gun rights restored. The bill would allow those individuals to also apply for a permit to carry a handgun.

Even those convicted of a violent felony could have their gun rights restored if they have completed their sentencing and received a pardon from the governor.

Under current law, only those convicted of a nonviolent felony can restore gun rights through a gubernatorial pardon.